Meet Wallenpaupack Area HS head football coach Mark “Doc” Watson
HAWLEY, Pa. — Mark wasn’t two years into college at The Pennsylvania State University when he received a call that catapulted a lifelong career into motion. On the other end of the line was an opportunity to teach Automotive Technology at Wallenpaupack Area High School and soon after become Assistant Football Coach of the Buckhorns.
With a resounding “yes” he accepted the position while simultaneously finishing his Bachelor’s Degree in Vocational Industrial Education, receiving a Master’s Degree in Workforce Development and Training and completing his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Workforce Education. Soon after, Mark became Head Football Coach of the WAHS Buckhorns and spent the following 18 seasons molding the team and sharing his passion for the game year after year.
“Trust, belief and accountability will carry you through life,” Mark says. For him, coaching means more than preparing the team for game day. Mark wants to instill lessons that go beyond the field and into adulthood. “I always say I want the boys to take what they learn and use it at every stage in life. The habits they form now will shape who they become as husbands, fathers and valuable members of the community.”
The same goes for teaching in the classroom. Department Chair of Career and Technical Education, Mark takes great pride in Wallenpaupack’s Automotive Technology Program, which with his leadership is the only school to win 3 National Titles. Winning such competitions provide students with scholarships used to advance their education. “Everything takes work,” he says, “A strong work ethic will take you farther than you can imagine.”
Around the wrists of the football team, as well as past and present student and faculty members, you’ll find a black rubber band with the letters F.A.M.I.L.Y capitalized in white which stands for, “‘Forget About Me, I Love You.” This message has become an infamous and impactful motto for the Buckhorns, simply meaning wherever you are and whatever you are going through, we care about each other and are here for one another.
Above all else, the importance of family reigns true in the Watson household. Mark attributes his successes to the unconditional support of his wife, Sharon, and the upbringing of their three children, Alyssa, Mia and Dane of which he is immensely proud. Each member embraces the football culture, and it is not uncommon to find the doors open to welcome and host the team for a night of comradery.
Retiring from football this year, Mark reflects on his coaching career. “Wallenpaupack gave me the best job of my life,” he says, “I want to be remembered for not being afraid to put in the time for others.” Mark wants to leave a legacy of dedication and the belief in one’s ability to achieve great things.
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